The West & Henry The Navigator

“First I’d love to introduce you to the Algarve region: The Algarve from the Arabic al-gharb, "the West" is the southernmost region of mainland Portugal. Tourism and related activities are extensive and make up the bulk of the Algarve's summer economy. Fish, seafood and fruit production, which includes oranges, carob beans, figs and almonds, are important activities in the region.”

“We begin by exploring the old Moorish capital of Silves. This city was once the capital of the whole district and that was still referred to in the 19th Century as the “Kingdom of the Algarve”. So much history is attached to Silves and its surrounding area that only a book would do it justice! The town traces back to 1.000 BC but it really became an important place during its occupation in the early 11th Century by the Moors. We visit the various historical sites, such as the cathedral, the castle, and the archaeological museum.”

“The most southerly community in Portugal and the most south-westerly in continental Europe is Sagres. It is only when you catch sight of the grey ramparts of the fortress blocking off the massive plateau of Sagres Point and cast your eye around the 10 km arc of sheer cliffs to the lighthouse at Cape St. Vincent that you get a real feeling for the tremendous historical importance of this place.”

“However, fear not, we enjoy a relaxing lunch break in Lagos before continuing to the most south-westerly village on mainland Europe, Sagres. Of course it will not be all about history. You get to see how we bake our traditional cakes “D. Rodrigo, massapã”. Also we visit a typical & traditional harbor too, where we observe fishermen mending their nets.”

Itinerary 2:

The Portuguese Countryside - Alentejo

“Today we explore the Portuguese countryside – an immersion into a sublime blend of Portuguese culture, history, wine, and gastronomy. Destination: The rustic Alentejo province. The region offers great scenic beauty with its rolling countryside dotted with cork oaks, olive trees and vineyards. Enjoy exceptional wine and food as we explore charming little villages set against the backdrop of medieval castles and monasteries.”

“We explore the Roman legacy at Évora, a Unesco World Heritage Site. This is a wonderful, charming town. The wine made around the town of Evora comes from the famed Alentejo region of Portugal. Among some of the top names are Herdade do Esporao and J. Portugal Ramos. We taste some wines, perhaps buy the occasional wine bottle, and surround ourselves with music and laughter that is typical for the local people as you experience a culture and heritage that makes them truly unique.”

Itinerary 3:

Lisbon

“Another way to get to know Portugal is by seeing and learning how we make our famed tiles. Today is in part a hands-on day. Tile making is still a living tradition in this region, thanks to the creativity of its craftsmen and the existence of workshops that keep up the ancient tradition of tile manufacture. There are several different places in the district where you can find hand-painted tiles. In Azeitão there is a handicraft shop where people not only sell tiles but actually make them.”

“Here, there is a deliberate attempt to recreate an ancient art that has been rooted in the habits of the Portuguese since the 16th century. Whoever comes here learns about the manufacturing process, the time involved and the patience it takes to make one single such square, and you are invited to paint as well.”

“In the afternoon we can either visit one of the oldest Portuguese wineries or we continue on to Cascais, a cosmopolitan suburb of the Portuguese capital and one of the richest municipalities in Portugal. The former fishing village gained fame as a resort for Portugal's royal family in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Nowadays it is a popular vacation spot for both Portuguese and foreign tourists. Or we visit Estoril, a seaside resort with its famous casino, Casino Estoril. Estoril was the residence of Juan de Borbón, pretender to the Spanish throne during the last part of the 20th century. Estoril used to be a significant fishing port.”